10 Tips to Reduce Stress and Stay Present this Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and quality time with loved ones. However, it can also bring an overwhelming amount of stress, anxiety, and pressure, which can significantly impact our mental health. As we navigate the hustle and bustle of this time of year, it's crucial to prioritize our well-being. Finding ways to stay grounded and present is essential. In this article, I'll share 10 practical tips to help you reduce stress and cultivate inner harmony this holiday season.

Remember, the key is to be kind to yourself and find a balance that works for you. With a little intentionality, you can savor the magic of the season while also protecting your mental health and well-being.

1. Stay Present - With the holiday rush on the roads, in stores, and with people buzzing about, it can be difficult to stay present during the holiday season; however, all of the magic of the season is found in the moments when you are profoundly and intentionally present. Stay present, practice gratitude, and be mindful. Daily moments of deep breathing, observing thoughts without judgment, and connecting with the present can significantly reduce anxiety.

Appreciate and find joy in the simple and free moments with your children, family and friends. Make a hot cocoa and watch your favorite holiday film on your cozy couch in your favorite pajamas. Don’t let worry and the need to deliver the “perfect” holiday steal you of your joy this season.

2. Don’t Overcommit - Effective time management is crucial for holiday preparation. Create a realistic to-do list, delegate tasks, allow help from family or friends, and schedule a few meaningful holiday activities. You don’t need to be out every night of the week and say yes to every party, invitation, or event. Balance is key, as having plans every night of the week will likely lead to burnout and feelings of exhaustion.

3. Schedule Personal Time - While socializing is a significant aspect of the holidays, prioritizing your well-being is equally important. Schedule regular breaks and quiet time for yourself to recharge and engage in healthy habits. Review your outstanding PTO benefits at work and take a few days off. Schedule a “Me” day to engage in holiday activities or relax at home with a good book and a hot cup of tea.

4. Lead with Love and Compassion - Family gatherings can sometimes be a source of stress, especially with unresolved conflicts or challenging dynamics. Making a conscious decision to lead with love and compassion while setting boundaries with unhealthy and conflict-driven family members. You know the saying: Everyone is fighting a battle we know nothing about, be kind.

5. Create a budget and stick to it - As the holiday season draws near, it's crucial to manage your finances effectively. This approach helps prevent unnecessary stress and anxiety. By adopting smart shopping and gift-giving tactics, setting a realistic holiday budget, and addressing financial concerns, you can enjoy the season's true spirit without financial strain.

Manage the urge to overspend, consider crafting homemade presents, explore secondhand or vintage shops for unique items, or set a strict gift-giving limit. The pressure to maintain holiday traditions and meet social expectations can exacerbate financial anxiety. It's important to remember that your worth is not tied to your holiday budget.

6. Seek out the Positives - Seek out the positives this holiday season. Find the beauty in the lights, holiday decor, music, and smells. Focus your attention and intention on finding the positives in every moment. As the end of the year draws near, now is a great time to reflect on all the progress you’ve made, all the challenges you’ve overcome, and to focus on the things or people you are most grateful for this holiday season.

7. Moderation is key - Be conscious of your alcohol and food consumption this holiday. Make healthy decisions about your food choices and be responsible when it comes to drinking. Stay hydrated and ensure adequate sleep.

8. Hire Help - The holiday season goes by in the blink of an eye and can often feel overwhelming. Consider hiring help if you have the resources to do so. Consider hiring a cleaning crew, catering dinner, hiring a babysitter, or some help to wrap your gifts. Whatever you need, consider sourcing a bit of help to take the burden away from you so you can be intentional with your time.

9. Establish Healthy Boundaries - The holiday season, while filled with joyous gatherings, also amplifies social anxiety. It is imperative to establish healthy boundaries and strike a balance between social commitments and personal well-being during this festive period. The holiday season's whirlwind of parties and family events can be overwhelming. It is crucial to set clear limits on your time and energy. Learn to politely decline invitations that don't align with your needs or schedule.

10. Honor those before us - Some are entering this holiday for the first time since losing a loved one. Some are still struggling with a divorce or a downsized family since their elders have moved away. Be kind and compassionate to those struggling to adjust to their new normal. If you feel compelled, consider doing something special to honor their memory or care for a lonely neighbor. You never know how much your small act of kindness can mean to someone else.

Remember, the holiday season is a time for celebration and connection with loved ones. By integrating these strategies into your routine, you can navigate the holidays with more peace, fulfillment, and of course inner harmony.

~ Victoria Roger, LCSW - Therapist and Founder of Inner Harmony NY based in Massapequa, NY and serving clients across New York State